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Director General (Harare)

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has warned illegal foreign currency dealers saying the long arm of the law would soon catch up with them.
Chiwenga, who is also the Minister of Health and Child Care, issued the warning while officially opening the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) International Business Conference last week.
He said indiscipline on the parallel market continued to disrupt efforts being made by the monetary authorities to revive and grow the economy. He said:
<blockquote>
Inflation has been on the decline with the year-on-year rate falling to 56 per cent and forecast to be much lower by year-end. This is underpinned by a strong macro-economic framework and close coordination between the fiscal and monetary authorities as demonstrated by the sustained fiscal discipline and tight monetary conditions.
Furthermore, the operationalisation of the foreign currency auction system has set us firmly on the path to price and exchange rate stability, the drawback which we continued to face is indiscipline on the parallel market which continued to stir up negative expectations that undermined the impressive efforts by the monetary authorities.
I wish to warn the perpetrators of this heinous crime that the long arm of the law will soon catch up with them so those who are practising it be warned.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe adopted the Dutch Foreign Exchange System in June 2020 to allow businesses to access foreign currency at an Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) set exchange rate in a move that was meant to stabilise the parallel market rate. 
The rate has since then been somewhat stable as it has been hovering around US$1: ZWL$85 rate for months. 
Delays in paying allorted forex has, however, forced some to go to the parallel market. The RBZ has a backlog of about US$2 million. 

More: <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/latest-vp-chiwenga-fires-warning-shots-at-illegal-foreign-currency-dealers/">B-Metro</a>

Pindula News

VP Chiwenga Warns Illegal Foreign Currency Dealers

Yapi Merkezi has started implementing Phase One of the deal with the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) to recapitalise and modernise the nation’s railway system.
The Turkish company recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with NRZ and the deal is expected to kick-start the transformation of NRZ through the rehabilitation of the country’s railways.
Secretary for Transport and Infrastructure Development, Engineer Theodius Chinyanga, on Thursday told The Sunday Mail that Phase One entails rehabilitating existing infrastructure. Eng Chinyanga said:
<blockquote>
The Turkish entity sent in its delegation about a fortnight ago, they made presentations on capabilities, the kind of support they have from the Turkish government and they invited the Government to visit some of the countries where they are undertaking projects.
They will be looking at the track, signalling, locomotives, workshops, and any other ancillary areas that NRZ will be looking at rehabilitating, specifically the main railway corridors in order to attract business.
The first phase of this deal is focusing on existing infrastructure and not new infrastructure. The company has capabilities in passenger coaches to rehabilitate the public transport system in urban areas so light rail will be considered but it will be included in existing infrastructure.
No new infrastructure is envisioned under this arrangement. The first phase focuses on capacitation and recapitalisation of NRZ in terms of equipment, its tracks, locomotives and wagons. This phase will also involve the scoping mission.
</blockquote>
Eng Chinyanga said the second phase will entail extensive negotiations that will lead to financial closure adding “once those are signed off, it means we will be entering the actual implementation.”
Yapi Merkezi, ranked 78th in the 2020 list of top international 250 contractors, has also indicated its intention to include the procurement of locomotives in the deal.
The NRZ requires a capital injection of US$400 million in the short to medium term to return to profitability.
Yapi Merkezi’s general manager, Mr Ali Aslan Uzun, recently said they have the capacity to overhaul Zimbabwe’s railway network.
More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/nrz-turkish-deal-takes-off">The Sunday Mail</a>

Turkish Company Starts Implementing Phase 1 Of NRZ Deal

The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) has apologised for the power outage in some parts of Harare saying thieves stole the authority’s underground cables.
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), a ZESA subsidiary says it is already working to have the power supply restored to affected areas. Pindula News presents ZETDC’s notice.
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) would like to apologize to its valued customers in Harare Region for the power outage due to a stolen underground cable. 
Areas affected are: Crusher Station, Edith Coert street, Arcadia Square, Arcadia, Culverwell road, St Helena, Cyprus Court, Narvick place, Morgan High School and Morgan Zintech College. 
ZETDC engineers and technicians are working to rectify the fault. 
The inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted.
</blockquote>
ZESA has in the past attributed some power cuts witnessed countrywide to vandalism of its properties including transformers and cables. 
In August last year, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zesa-loses-23-000-transformers-to-vandals-in-bulawayo/">Zesa reported that it had lost 23 000 transformers and 76 000 cables in Bulawayo</a> to thieves adding that they needed to be urgently repaired. 
Thieves risk 30-year-jail terms. In 2019, then Minister of Energy and Power Development, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Fortune_Chasi" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fortune Chasi</a>, warned members of the public against vandalising ZESA properties or buying stolen electricity infrastructure. He said:
<blockquote>
If we find anyone with two litres of transformer oil, one will be imprisoned for 30 years as well.
We are now close to 3 000 transformers stolen, the unfortunate part is that people are dying trying to steal ZESA cables and transformers.
</blockquote>
ZETDC experiences an average of 5 cases of vandalism of transformers or cables every day.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Thieves Steal ZESA Cables Plunging Some Parts Of Harare Into Darkness

An Indonesian official has reiterated the Southeast Asian country’s interest to secure deals in Zimbabwe’s various economic sectors such as pharmaceuticals, rubber and the railways.
A representative of the Indonesian embassy in Zimbabwe, Rahma Mardina, told the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) special bulletin of her country’s interests:
<blockquote>
We are interested in the transportation field by proposing the revitalisation of the railroad with NRZ to fulfil the market needs in Zimbabwe, especially and or regional market as a whole. On our part, we also have a range of products for Zimbabwe.
These include rubber, coffee, pharmaceutical products, palm sugar, red brick machines, transportation aircraft, electric motors with friendly energy, locomotives, concrete and solar panels.
</blockquote>
In 2019, Indonesia Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Juniarta Sastrawan, said that his country, through the Indonesia International Economic Co-operation Programme, intends to capacitate the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) by finding investors from all over the world for the parastatal.
NRZ, which recently signed a memorandum of understanding with a Turkish construction firm Yapi Merkezi, is struggling to keep afloat due to out-of-date equipment, among other challenges.
The NRZ requires about US$1.9 billion to rehabilitate its track, acquire locomotives, wagons and upgrade information communication technology to enable the parastatal to increase freight volumes.
In 2019, the government cancelled a US$400 million NRZ recapitalisation programme signed two years ago with the Diaspora Infrastructure Development Group after the group reportedly “failed” to comply with contractual timelines.
More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2021/09/24/indonesia-sets-sights-on-nrz/">The Independent</a>

Indonesia Reiterates Interest In Partnering National Railways Of Zimbabwe

The government allegedly spent over US$200 000 on Finance minister Mthuli Ncube’s accommodation after his two-year stay at Miekles Hotel where an executive room costs US$200 per night.  
This expenditure of taxpayers’ money comes when Zimbabwe’s economy is still recovering following decades of poor performance. 
Ironically, Ncube has since his appointment in 2018, been introducing austerity measures that were meant to cut public expenditure, and promote saving and economic resuscitation.
A senior civil servant Thursday dismissed suggestions that Ncube lived at the Meikles hotel for over two years. The source said:
<blockquote>
The honourable minister stayed at the hotel for just three months whilst his house was still being occupied by tenants. As soon as the tenant’s lease was duly terminated, he moved into his personal home.
</blockquote>
However, a source in the tourism sector told the Independent that “Ncube stayed at Meikles for a very long time”.
It will not be the first time though after former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko also lodged at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in the capital for many years and the government paid the US$619 000 bill.
Mphoko’s reason for staying at the 5-star hotel was that the house that he was allocated by the government did not match his high office.
He finally moved into a US$2 million mansion built by the government.
More: The Independent

Government Spends US$200K On Finance Minister Ncube's Hotel Bills - Report

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Investment_and_Development_Agency">Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA)</a> Chief Innovation Officer, Dr Raban Masuka, has suggested that Zimbabwe should safeguard <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zumbani/Umsuzwane/Lippia_Javanica">Zumbani/Umsuzwane/Lippia Javanica</a> which is now being used in other countries for medicinal purposes.
Zumbani became popular with the outbreak of the coronavirus as it is famed for opening up airways and relieving those with shortness of breath.
People have been inhaling steam laced with the herb in a practice known as kunatira/kufukira locally. The practice has been so popular that sellers are making bucket-loads of money selling the herb which is now suddenly in short supply.
Zumbani, Mufandichimuka and Moringa are some of the herbs which have been presented as miracle cures although there has been no definitive proof.
This attracted demand beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. Dr Masuka believes Zimbabwe could safeguard and be the sole seller of the plant. Watch the video below by <a href="https://twitter.com/nickmangwana/status/1441421817206304785">ZTN</a> for more details.
<div>
<video controls="controls" height="360" preload="metadata" width="640"><a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ZUMBANI-PROTECT-THE-MEDICINE.mp4">https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ZUMBANI-PROTECT-THE-MEDICINE.mp4</a></video></div>
Information secretary, Nick Mangwana said Dr Raban Masuka’s suggestion makes sense. He added:
<blockquote>
We saw a community in SA winning royalties for Rooibos. Zumbani is a plant native to Zimbabwe but is now being used in other countries.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

WATCH: Calls Made For Safeguarding Zumbani / Umsuzwane

Zol Announces Price Adjustment Effective 1 October 2021

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has increased police visibility at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair to curb crimes that are usually associated with the event due to an entrance of visitors.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube told Southern Eye Wednesday that law enforcement agents were prepared to deal with criminals that take advantage of the increase in the number of visitors in the city during the annual trade extravaganza. Ncube said:
<blockquote>
We have realised that there is an influx of visitors in Bulawayo, we are glad to receive them, we want to tell them that they are safe.
We have deployed enough police officers to deal with those who will be engaged in criminal activities. Some criminals would have travelled from afar, we want to warn them that Bulawayo is not a hunting ground for criminals and does not tolerate lawlessness.
We urge the public to co-operate with police and that they should not leave their luggage in their cars.
</blockquote>
This year’s ZITF comes at a time when Bulawayo has in the recent past recorded a spate of armed robbery, resulting in an exchange of gunfire between police officers and armed robbers.
In August, police in Bulawayo shot and killed a member of a six-armed-member gang that had come all the way from South Africa. Two were injured when the gang pounced on a house along Franklin Drive in Fourwinds, Bulawayo.
Four firearms were recovered at the scene.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/heavy-police-presence-at-zitf/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

ZRP: We've Deployed Enough Police Officers At ZITF

First Mutual Properties has invited suitable candidates to apply for the Assistant Management Accountant and Account Administrator vacant posts. Pindula News presents the adverts in detail below.
<blockquote>
<h2>VACANCY – ASSISTANT MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTANT</h2>
Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill the above vacancy that has arisen within First Mutual Properties Limited. 
The Job 
• Evaluating and monitoring individual property financial performance in line with property portfolio mix guidelines 
• Design and construct innovative financial models to appraise property investment opportunities 
• Preparing financial pre-feasibility assessments for investment opportunities 
• Conducts property portfolio investment analysis and prepares investment proposal documentation 
• Prepares project funding plans and cash flows for property acquisitions, developments and refurbishments 
• Prepares heads of agreements for project funding agreements for legal counsel review 
• Reviews commercial agreements, terms sheets and investment proposals from prospective partners; 
• Coordinates and prepares monthly, quarterly, annual and five-yearly financial budgets and forecasts in line with the overall corporate strategic plan. 
• Conducts budget variance and business performance analysis. 
• Prepares quarterly and annual forecasts. 
• Monitors and reviews cape, property maintenance budgets to the approved budgets and cash flow plan. 
• Evaluates financial performance against benchmark industry and competitor performance. 
• Prepares financial reporting presentations for investors or stakeholders on a quarterly, bi-annual and annual basis. 
• Identifies business risks and evaluates their impact on corporate strategy and operational plans quarterly, half-yearly and annually 
The Person 
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or relevant field.
 • Minimum of 3 years experience. 
• 2 years’ experience within a financial institution or finance experience is an added advantage. 
• Studying towards or the completion of professional qualification such as CFA, ACCA will be an added advantage 
• Advanced skills, including Microsoft Excel, financial modelling, research, documentation is mandatory 
• Analytical, process, deadline-driven mindset 
Candidates meeting the above criteria should forward their Curriculum sitter (Cos), copies of certificates and application letters to Group Human Resources via the following email address: careers@firstmutualholdings.com Applications should be sent by not later than 29 September 2021. 
<h2>VACANCY – ACCOUNT ADMINISTRATOR</h2>
The following vacancy has arisen within First Mutual Health Company in the Finance Department and applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill this vacancy. 
The Job 
• Receiving proof of payments together with remittances showing any changes. 
• Sending proof of payments to credit control for receipting and capturing. 
• Appling contributions received manually to each individual member on pay point/prepare excel disc to upload into the system for reconciliation to be completed. 
• Generating statement of account on the reconciled period and notify clients of any discrepancies. 
• Receiving and updating membership application forms daily. 
• Checking for correctness, completeness and eligibility of information required for setting up a members record. 
• Carrying out terminations of accounts in arrears and members whose contributions are in arrears. 
• Communicating the waiting periods applicable to members before registration. 
• Maintaining good relations with clients through client meetings and attending to their requests on time. 
• Attending to enquiries and service provider confirmations through emails, walk-in clients and telephone calls within
The Person 
• Diploma in Accounting, Business Studies or equivalent. 
• Certificate of Proficiency in insurance is an added advantage. 
• One-year-experience in a similar environment. 
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. 
• Proven experience with administrative and accounting processes is a bonus. 
Candidates meeting the above criteria should forward their Curriculum Vitaes (CVs), copies of certificates and application letters to Group Human Resources via the following email address: careers@firstmutualholdings.com Applications should be sent by not later than 29 September 2021. 
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

JOBS: First Mutual Invites Candidates To Fill Vacant Posts

The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) kicked off on Wednesday on a “low note” as most exhibitors were still to set up their stands, many of them affected by a late decision to run the exhibition after the lockdown was reduced to level 2.
Some stands were unoccupied while others were still closed, meaning the companies were not taking part.
Only 25% of Bulawayo companies are exhibiting at the fair, demonstrating just how hard the pandemic has hit the remaining firms in a city once touted as Zimbabwe’s industrial hub.
Those present include the National Railways of Zimbabwe and Boustead Beef, which has failed to reopen the Cold Storage Company, another indication that the economic situation remains tricky.
That is not all, even South Africa — Zimbabwe’s largest trading partner — did not take up large exhibition space this year.
China, too, which has for years dominated the ZITF, occupying large exhibition spaces, seemingly has a lowkey representation.
Only 10 countries, namely Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa and Tanzania, are participating but on a smaller scale.
In 2019, the exhibition attracted 17 countries.
These developments indicate how the COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping everything, including the future of major exhibitions.
With the pandemic likely to be gripping the world for some time, the rate at which physical exhibitions will be held will remain subdued.
Under the circumstances, tech-based marketing and campaigns will be key to complementing reduced physical exhibitions.
This is likely to be the new normal until economies reopen as the pandemic fizzles out.
Last year’s hard lockdowns forced authorities to call off the important trade showcase for the first time.
For Zimbabwe, however, the spirited efforts made to ensure the holding of this year’s edition of ZITF is a good start in the country’s drive to rebuild the economy.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/subdued-trade-fair-mirrors-state-of-the-country/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2021: COVID-19 Reshaping Everything

TelOne has announced an adjustment to tariffs with effect from the 29th of September. In a statement, the government parastatal said:
<blockquote>
Public Notice on Tariff Adjustments effective 29 September 2021. Terms and Conditions Apply. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TheFutureIsBetterTogether" rel="hashtag noopener" target="_blank">#TheFutureIsBetterTogether</a> 
<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23TelOne" rel="hashtag noopener" target="_blank">#TelOne</a>
</blockquote>
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.48">Package Name</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.19">Download Cap</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=85.23">ZWL$</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73">Home Basic</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=94.62">10GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87">1,499</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87">Home Extra</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.79">15GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.19">1,649</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.19">Home Plus</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.71">30GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.95">2,548</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.8">Home Premier</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.04">60GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.52">4,347</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86">Home Surfer</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.48">100GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.09">5,440</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94">Home Boost</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.35">200GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.58">6,295</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.49">Infinity Pro</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.32">500GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.73">9,143</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.91">Intense</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=74.67">Uncapped*(FUP)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.28">12,441</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73">Home Night Packages</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.78">Home Basic Night</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.73">20GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.39">1,949</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.3">Home Plus Night</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=92.04">60GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.05">3,298</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.62">Home Premier Night</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.27">120GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.8">5,546</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=95.21">Blaze LTE Broadband Service Tariffs Package Name</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.39">Download Cap</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=65.8">ZWL$</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.78">Blaze Lite</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.58">8GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.76">1,349</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.35">Blaze Xtra</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.7">15GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=94.18">2,098</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.81">Blaze Boost</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.51">20GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.58">2,698</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.37">Blaze Ultra</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.14">40GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.71">4,347</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.11">Blaze Trailblazer</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.32">100GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.66">6,595</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88">Blaze Supernova</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=67.82">Uncapped*(FUP)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.99">13,041</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.02">WIFI</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=58.61">ZWLS</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.4">1GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9">150</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=96.78">2.5GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88">300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.31">6GB</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93">450</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=94.34">Internet Café</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94">150</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.11">SME Broadband Service Tariffs Package Name</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.36">Download Cap</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=89.03">ZWL$</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.02">Infinity Supreme</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=69.95">Uncapped*(FUP)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.01">15,588</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.28">Intense Extra</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=59.65">Uncapped*(FUP)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.31">20,835</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

TelOne Makes Tariff Adjustments Effective 29 September

Vice President Constantino Chiwenga has said economic agents, including the micro, small and medium enterprises can transform the economic trajectory of Zimbabwe.
The former military boss made the remarks on Wednesday while addressing delegates at the annually-held Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) held at the ZITF Business Conference in Bulawayo. He said:
<blockquote>
We now have economic agents, including the micro, small and medium enterprises. This paradigm shift means enterprising individuals sustaining themselves through the SMEs sector should no longer be considered as unemployed just because they are not in wage employment.
</blockquote>
He reiterated that one of the key lessons which should never be forgotten from the Covid-19 experience is that a nation is more secure if it is willing to rely on itself than foreign production.
VP Chiwenga said the funds received from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) will be deployed prudently to support key social and economic programmes that will in the future assure sustained development. He added:
<blockquote>
The injection of the IMF SDR is not the panacea of the structural imbalance which remains, which we are determined to resolve. Disciplined behaviour of all of a as economic agents will be critical in building the economy towards Vision 2030.
</blockquote>
He speaks when the country’s unemployment rate is reportedly growing following the closure of some companies following the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. Some closed citing lack of a conducive operating environment in Zimbabwe.
VP Chiwenga also said there were enormous economic opportunities that Zimbabwean businesses stand to exploit through deepened regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA), inviting industry to work together with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, ZimTrade and other trade facilitation bodies.
More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/vp-chiwenga-zimbabweans-must-build-the-national-economy/">The SundayNews</a>

Individuals In SMEs Sector Are Not Unemployed - VP Chiwenga

Centre for Natural Resource Governance (CNRG) executive director Farai Maguwu (FM) has called for a relocation policy to protect rights and interests of people evicted from resource-rich areas. 
He made the remarks during an interview with NewsDay (ND) senior reporter Cliff Chiduku. The interview discussed tax incentives, the partial privatisation of Fidelity Printers and Refiners and a wide range of issues. Below are excerpts of the interview:
<blockquote>ND: Mining is regulated by a number of laws. It is mandatory that before any mining activity commences, there should be an environmental impact assessment certificate. However, of late, we have seen many people  who were arbitrarily removed from ecologically sensitive areas to pave way for mining operations. We have seen this in Marange, Mutoko and Manhize in Chivhu to mention but a few. How should this be handled?</blockquote>

<blockquote>
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/26/chiadzwa-villagers-relocated-to-pave-way-for-diamond-mining-spend-2-months-without-water/">Chiadzwa Villagers Relocated To Pave Way For Diamond Mining Spend 2 Months Without Water</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/21/chilonga-evictions-no-one-will-be-displaced-chiredzi-rdc-chair/">Chilonga Evictions: No One Will Be Displaced – Chiredzi RDC Chair</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/06/16/chiredzi-villagers-threaten-to-drag-govt-to-court-over-eviction/">Chiredzi Villagers Threaten To Drag Govt To Court Over Eviction</a></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote>FM: Zimbabwe needs a relocation policy that clearly lays down how mining-induced displacements should be handled. This must include steps to be taken if people are to be moved. There must be fair valuation of properties such as buildings, boreholes, land and orchards, among others for compensation purposes. People living on communal land have rights. Their land cannot be prospected on without their consent. There are certain measures prescribed by law that are not being respected, for example, distance from which to start prospecting from a river and homesteads, among others.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/privatising-fidelity-printers-raises-more-questions-than-answers/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

Eviction Of People In Resource-rich Areas: Farai Maguwu Calls For Relocation Policy

The Zimbabwe Energy Supply Authority (ZESA) has issued statements notifying members of the public of power supply interruptions in the Harare region. Pindula News presents the two statements by the local power utility.
<blockquote>
<h2>NOTICE TO OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS </h2>
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) would like to advise its valued customers in Harare Region that there would be a power supply interruption for the purpose of carrying out critical maintenance works in the areas listed below. 
Date Time Areas affected Wednesday 22 September 0600 to 1800 hours Msasa Industrial area: Parts of Martin drive, Nandos Msasa, Pogos Msasa, parts of Neil avenue, Metcalf road, parts of Coronation avenue, Western road and Grandi Lodge. Thursday 23 September 0600 to 1800 hours Chitungwiza: Unit K, Unit L, Young Africa and the surrounding areas. 
Customers are advised to treat all circuits as LIVE during this period as power may be restored without notice. 
The inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted. 
<h2>NOTICE TO OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS </h2>
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) would like to advise its valued customers in Harare Region that there would be a power supply interruption on Thursday 23 September 2021 from 0600 hours to 1800 hours for the purpose of carrying out critical maintenance works. 
During this period electricity will not be available in the following areas: ZRP Minerals Somerby, Rera Butchery, Whitecliff North, Spitzkop plots, Nyavira Abbatoir, China Aihua Jianye and the surrounding areas. 
Customers are advised to treat all circuits as LIVE during this period as power may be restored without notice. 
The inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted. 
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

ZESA: Power Supply Interruption Harare Region Notice

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Reserve_Bank_of_Zimbabwe">Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)</a> recorded an increase in Reserve Money as of the week ending 10 September 2021 reflecting an increase in RBZ’s liquidity.
In the RBZ’s previous report for the week that <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/28/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-20-august-2021/">ended on 27 August 2021, Reserve Money had increased by</a> ZW$374.51 million to ZW$27.71 billion.
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/09/02/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-27-august-2021/">Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 27 August 2021</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/28/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-20-august-2021/">Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 20 August 2021</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/18/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-06-august-2021/">Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 06 August 2021</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/10/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-30-july-2021/">Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 30 July 2021</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/08/03/reserve-money-at-the-rbz-as-of-23-july-2021/">Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 23 July 2021</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/20/reserve-money-at-rbz-as-of-9-july-2021/">Reserve Money At RBZ As Of 9 July 2021</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/07/10/rbz-reserve-money-declines-again-2-july-2021/">RBZ: Reserve Money Declines Again – 2 July 2021</a></li>
</ul>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a> presents the central bank’s statement on the status of Reserve Money for the week ending 10 September 2021.
<blockquote>
1. Reserve money for the week ending 10th September 2021 rose by ZW$341.71 million to ZW$27.96 billion, compared to last week’s position of ZW$27.62 billion.
2. The rise in reserve money largely reflected increases of ZW$314.90 million and ZW$26.81 million in required reserves and currency issued, respectively. 
3. The banks’ liquidity at the RBZ (RTGS balances) remained unchanged during the week under review. 

</blockquote>
Download: <a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Reserve-Money-Update-10-September-2021.pdf">Reserve-Money-Update-10-September-2021</a>

Reserve Money At The RBZ As Of 10 September 2021

The Zimbabwe dollar (ZWL$) continues to lose value against the US dollar as indicated by the results of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) foreign currency (forex) auction conducted on Tuesday, 21 September 2021.
Last week the weighted average was US$1: ZWL$86.3010 and fell to US$1: ZWL$86.9267 this week.
This week, US$9.8 million was allocated to the Small to Medium Enterprises forex auction while US$29 million was allocated to the main forex auction.
In total, US$38.8 million was allotted this week, with the bulk of the allotment going to raw materials followed by machinery and equipment.
1082 bids were received on the Small to Medium enterprises forex auction, with 1023 accepted and 59 disqualified.
On the main forex auction, a total of 443 bids were received, 410 were accepted while 33 were disqualified.
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Reserve_Bank_of_Zimbabwe">The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ)</a> said bids that were disqualified were not eligible in terms of the Priority List.
Bids with overdue CDIs, outstanding Bills of Entry (BOEs), and those with sufficient FCA balances were also disqualified.
Some bids were allotted on a pro-rata basis to conform with the Import Priority List, the RBZ said.
Below is the RBZ summary of the forex auction:
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83">Number of Bids Received :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98">
SME FX58/2021
1082
</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">
MAIN FX60/2021
443
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.77">Number of Bids Disqualified :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96">59</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91">33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75">Total Number of Bids Accepted :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97">1023</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92">410</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.8">Total Number of Bids Allotted :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97">1023</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92">410</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.6">Total Value of Bids Accepted :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=96.07">USD 12 073 518.56</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.32">USD 34 894 442.49</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=98.91">Amount Allotted :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.72">USD 9,779,692.35</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.84">USD29,002,007.15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.37">Highest Rate Received :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9">97.2000</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">95.0000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.5">Lowest Bid Rate Received :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92">85.0000</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">85.0000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.45">Lowest Bid Rate Allotted :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87">85.0000</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91">85.0000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.49">Weighted Average Rate :</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93">86.9267</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<div>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">PURPOSE</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.83">AMOUNT ALLOTTED SME AUCTION</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91">AMOUNT ALLOTTED MAIN AUCTION</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97">Raw Materials</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92">3,004,873.06</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.87">12,642,805.59</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98">Machinery and Equipment</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">3,030,865.81</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.85">6,594,991.86</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75">Consumables (Incl. Spares, Tyres, Electricals, etc)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88">1,492,637.16</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75">2,632,044.47</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.54">Services (Loans, Education, Dividends, Disinvestments, etc)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9">599,110.94</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.93">1,204,631.57</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.68">Retail and Distribution (Incl. Food, Beverages, etc)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84">819,992.52</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.8">3,262,929.05</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.91">Fuel, Electricity and Gas</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.89">20,482.41</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97">0.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.81">Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.96">495,895.86</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86">1,942,533.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97">Paper and Packaging</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.86">315,834.59</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75">722,071.61</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.92">TOTAL</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94">9,779,692.35</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.9">29,002,007.15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94">GRAND TOTAL AWARDED</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.75">38,781,699.50</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

RBZ Foreign Currency Auction Results: 21 September 2021

Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE)-listed milk processor, Dairibord Holdings, says it will commission a new US$1.5 million manufacturing plant in the second half of the current financial year.
The company said the manufacturing plant would produce ice creams and yoghurt, which it said have not been in the market “significantly”.
Dairibord has not had a functional food manufacturing plant since it took the decision to decommission an old plant, to replace it with a new and more efficient one.
In an interview with State media, Dairibord chief executive officer Anthony Mandiwanza said the new plant would improve the company’s ability to meet product demand and grow its market share both locally and abroad. Mandiwanza said:
<blockquote>
On the food side, it has been really a supply concern because we decommissioned the main food plant in Harare so that we could put a new state of the art plant at a cost of about US$1.5 million.
Foods, which are mainly ice creams and yoghurts, have not been in the market significantly because we decommissioned the plant deliberately so that we launch the new plant in the second half, and we are on the verge of doing that in the second half.
We are sorting out our processing site so that our capacity and product availability is enhanced.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dairbord-to-launch-us15m-new-plant/">The Herald</a></h4>

Dairibord To Commission US$1.5 New Plant

The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has engaged two COVID-19 testing service providers and one vaccination service provider for this year’s showcase as part of managing the spread of the disease.
ZITF Company chief executive officer Nicholas Ndebele, in a statement on Saturday night, said all was set for the trade showcase and they will be providing COVID-19 testing and vaccination. He said:
<blockquote>
The stage is now set for the 61st edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair which begins on Tuesday.
There are two testing service providers as well as one vaccination service provider on site at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre.
This is for the convenience of those that are yet to get vaccinated. We encourage those who have not done so to take advantage of these facilities during ZITF in the coming week.
</blockquote>
He said the COVID-19 free certificate requirement is only applicable to exhibitors and International Business Conference delegates.
The test could either be polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or Antigen, Ndebele added.
For those who wish to attend the show as visitors, the entry on business days was free (21- 23 September), if they register online, but if one registers at the gate, they have to pay US$20 or Zimbabwe dollar equivalent at the bank rate.
Ndebele said entry on public days was US$5 or the Zimbabwe dollar equivalent at the official rate. He said:
<blockquote>
Advance tickets may be purchased from Choppies (Choppies Bulawayo Centre, Fort Street and Nkulumane Sokusile), Wholesale Centre Liquor Hub in Fife Street and Saimart (Nketa 6).
</blockquote>
Ndebele said in the interest of managing numbers and for the convenience of exhibitors, they have set up a badges collection point at Rainbow Towers in Harare.
This year the show is running under the theme: Showcasing the New Normal for Business and Industry: Realities and Opportunities. It will run from 21 to 24 September.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/">The Sunday News</a></h4>

COVID-19 Testing, Vaccination At ZITF

A Chinese diamond company, Anjin Investment, has publicly apologised to Headman Chiadzwa for resuming operations in his area without paying a courtesy call to the traditional leader first.
The company resumed operations early this year but did not pay a courtesy call to the traditional leader as per traditional protocols.
Speaking at Headman Chiadzwa compound last week during a visit by the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Mines and Mining Development led by Edmond Mukaratigwa, Anjin human resources manager Amon Mhlanga, said:
<blockquote>
We would like to apologise to Headman Chiadzwa for our failure to pay a courtesy call when we came back to mine in his area.
We are very sorry and we admit that we erred. We did not follow the protocol to visit the headman and advise him of our presence in his area.
</blockquote>
Mhlanga also tried to assure the community that their company was no longer involved in egregious human rights violations. He said:
<blockquote>
We know there are legacy issues but we promise you to resolve some of the outstanding issues.
Our company is not yet financial strong like ZCDC (Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company).
We are still trying to make things work but definitely, we will attend to community issues.
</blockquote>
He promised to engage his Chinese counterparts on the issue of respecting local cultures and observing human rights.
Also present at Headman Chiadzwa’s homestead were community-based, and civil society organisations among other stakeholders.
Anjin is a joint venture between a Chinese company, Anhui Foreign Economic Construction, and Matt Bronze Enterprises, which was formed by Zimbabwe’s Defence Ministry and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).
Anjin operated in Chiadzwa from 2009 to 2016 before the government revoked licences of all diamond companies operating in Chiadzwa leading to the formation of the Zimbabwe Consolidation Diamond Company (ZCDC).
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chinese-diamond-miner-apologises-for-mining-without-headmans-blessings/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Anjin Apologises For Mining Diamonds Without Headman Chiadzwa’s Blessings

A group of transporters on Monday reportedly staged a protest at Voedsel Tobacco International premises in Marondera demanding to be paid for their services.
The transporters were contracted by the company to ferry tobacco for contracted farmers to the auction floors with the company undertaking to pay them after deliveries.
An insider told NewZimbabwe.com that the transporters are disgruntled over late payments hence the flash protest. Said the source:
<blockquote>
A group of transporters was demanding their money. They left after rumours anti-riot police were coming.
</blockquote>
In Mashonaland East, Voedsel Tobacco International has contract farmers in areas like Wedza, Macheke, Marondera, and Goromonzi.
The tobacco firm has been struggling to pay even its farmers this season with officials reportedly blaming the novel coronavirus for affecting operations.
Efforts by the publication to get a comment from both the company’s spokesperson Tennyson Hwandi and director Innocent Mahufe were fruitless as their mobile phones were off.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/tobacco-firm-falls-on-hard-times-fails-to-pay-transporters/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Tobacco Firm Fails To Pay Transporters, Cites 'COVID-19'

State-owned mobile network operator, NetOne, has made senior appointments with four executives joining the company.
NetOne appointed Stanley Muchemwa as chief information officer, Isaiah Nyangari, chief commercial officer, Learnmore Masunda, general manager (microfinance services) and Roselyn Chisveto, head of marketing and public relations.
The four appointments are with effect from September 1, 2021.
Meanwhile, the positions of chief operating officer and chief technical officer remain vacant and are expected to be filled with effect from October 1, 2021. The Herald reported sources as saying:
<blockquote>
NetOne is beefing up its executive in line with our vision, to be the preferred mobile service provider in Zimbabwe; to be the market leader.
</blockquote>
No official comment could be obtained from NetOne by the time of going to press yesterday.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/netone-makes-senior-appointments/">The Herald</a></h4>

NetOne Makes Four Senior Appointments

The World Bank Group has decided to discontinue the “Doing Business” reports that were widely used to assess the investment climate in countries.
This follows data irregularities found in the 2018 and 2020 reports. Yesterday the World Bank issued the following statement on the Doing Business report: 
<blockquote>
Trust in the research of the World Bank Group is vital. World Bank Group research informs the actions of policymakers, helps countries make better-informed decisions, and allows stakeholders to measure economic and social improvements more accurately. 
Such research has also been a valuable tool for the private sector, civil society, academia, journalists, and others, broadening understanding of global issues.
After data irregularities on Doing Business 2018 and 2020 were reported internally in June 2020, World Bank management paused the next Doing Business report and initiated a series of reviews and audits of the report and its methodology.
In addition, because the internal reports raised ethical matters, including the conduct of former Board officials as well as current and/or former Bank staff, management reported the allegations to the Bank’s appropriate internal accountability mechanisms.  
After reviewing all the information available to date on Doing Business, including the findings of past reviews, audits, and the report the Bank released today on behalf of the Board of Executive Directors, World Bank Group management has taken the decision to discontinue the Doing Business report.
The World Bank Group remains firmly committed to advancing the role of the private sector in development and providing support to governments to design the regulatory environment that supports this.
Going forward, we will be working on a new approach to assessing the business and investment climate.
We are deeply grateful for the efforts of the many staff members who have worked diligently to advance the business climate agenda, and we look forward to harnessing their energies and abilities in new ways.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/statement/2021/09/16/world-bank-group-to-discontinue-doing-business-report?cid=SHR_SitesShareTT_EN_EXT">The World Bank</a></h4>

World Bank Discontinues ‘Doing Business Report’ 

The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) says it has shelved sport and entertainment activities for this year’s trade expo in order to follow strict COVID-19 prevention regulations.
The ZITF Company has said as part of measures to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus, children would not be allowed to attend this year’s show. Said ZITF deputy chief executive officer Stella Nkomo:
<blockquote>
We are not going to have any sport or entertainment at the main arena. This is part of the safety measures being enforced this year.
We sat and said we have to compromise on a few activities and one of those things was to say we will do away with main arena activities.
Most of these activities are targeted at kids so without the kids it’s difficult to have an audience for some of these entertainment activities.
</blockquote>
Events such as the Coca-Cola Four-Minute Mile, Ingwebu Tug of War competition and Mr ZITF are some of the sport codes that have kept crowds entertained on public days of the expo but will not be there this year.
This year the show is running under the theme: Showcasing the New Normal for Business and Industry: Realities and Opportunities.
It will run from 21 to 24 September.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/no-sports-at-zitf/">Chronicle</a></h4>

No Sports, Entertainment At ZITF

An investigation by BBC Panorama has found evidence that suggests one of the world’s largest tobacco companies, British American Tobacco (BAT), bribed the late Robert Mugabe to have its illegal surveillance charges dropped.
Leaked documents show that BAT contracted a South African private security company, Forensic Security Services (FSS) to sabotage BAT’s rivals. Officially, FSS was contracted to fight the black-market cigarette trade, however former employees told the BBC that the security company broke the law to sabotage BAT’s rivals.
In one operation, FSS staff were instructed to close down three cigarette factories run by BAT’s competitors in Zimbabwe. FSS paid an unnamed Zimbabwean firm to conduct surveillance on a Savanna Tobacco factory in 2012, but the company got caught. 
Three of the firm’s directors were charged in connection with the illegal surveillance. The arrests prompted the then president, Robert Mugabe, to make a speech condemning the men’s actions and BAT’s suspected involvement. A man who was sent by BAT to negotiate a deal with Mugabe who spoke to Panorama said he bribed a number of government officials to secure a meeting to discuss the arrested directors’ case.
Documents seen by the BBC confirm that the man was provided with the equivalent of US$12,000 in local currency. They also suggest the money for the bribes was provided by BAT. A memo suggested that the amount of the donation would be in the region of between USD300,000 to USD500,000 to Zanu PF.
While the leaked documents do not show if the bribe was paid, the three directors were released within days of the deal being offered. <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-58517339" rel="noopener" target="_blank">BBC</a> reports that BAT declined to answer Panorama’s questions about the Zimbabwe payments, but it did not deny paying a bribe to Robert Mugabe.
<div class="ssrcss-uf6wea-RichTextComponentWrapper e1xue1i87" data-component="text-block">
<div class="ssrcss-18snukc-RichTextContainer e5tfeyi1">
It is against UK law for a British company to pay bribes, no matter where the payment takes place.
</div>
</div>

British American Tobacco Bribed Robert Mugabe To Have Illegal Surveillance Charges Dropped

A local economist, Prosper Chitambara, has warned the government against continued fuel price increases arguing that this will hamper current efforts to stabilise the economy.
He made the remarks shortly after the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) increased the prices of petrol and diesel this week. Said Chitambara:
<blockquote>
While it is a fact that fuel prices have been significantly increasing on a global scale as the world swiftly emerges from COVID-19 lockdowns, the sad part is that Zimbabwe fuel price increases will be a double-edged sword for locals who have endured prices already higher than those of other global players.
The government must urgently see sense in reduced fuel prices as this will go a long way to boost productivity and ultimately increase other sources of revenue for the government.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday, ZERA set the maximum pump price of diesel at ZWL$115.15 or US$1.34 per litre and petrol at ZWL$118.42 or US$1.38 per litre.
This is a slight increase from the fuel prices of August that were pegged at ZWL$114.29 or US$1.33 per litre of diesel and ZWL$117.07 or US$1.37 per litre of petrol.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/govt-warned-over-continued-fuel-hikes/">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Economist Warns Govt Over Continued Fuel Price Hikes

Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe chief executive Precious Murena Nyika has resigned with immediate effect after serving for only 18 months at the cement manufacturing giant.
NewsDay cited informed market sources as saying Murena was forced to resign yesterday due to undisclosed issues.
She was the first female Zimbabwean to become a chief executive officer of Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe Limited.
Lafarge confirmed Murena’s departure, adding that chief finance officer Amr El Moufay, will take over the role of acting Chief Executive Officer effective today, until the appointment of a substantive chief executive anytime soon.
Lafarge Cement board chairman Kumbirai Katsande said she had left to pursue other interests.
Katsande praised Murena saying she had produced positive results in a short space in her first 12 months at the helm. He said:
<blockquote>
After a career spanning 10 years of service, with 18 months spent at the helm of Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe Limited, we announce that Precious Murena is stepping down as CEO of Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe Limited, in order to pursue new interests outside the Holcim Group.
During her tenure as Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe Limited recorded remarkable results in her first year as CEO in 2020.
Precious Murena championed capital projects and introduced new technologies in building. 
Precious will always be remembered as the first female Zimbabwean to become a Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe Limited.
</blockquote>
Murena was appointed CEO on 1 March 2020 taking over from Kaziwe Siame Kaulule who was elevated to another position within the group.
She joined Lafarge Cement Zimbabwe in 2011 coming from the furniture retail and manufacturing industry and was appointed director in charge of human resources, strategy and communications.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/09/larfage-cement-zimbabwe-fires-ceo-precious-murena-nyika/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Larfage Cement Zimbabwe CEO Precious Murena-Nyika Quits

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective Wednesday, 8 September 2021.
ZERA has set the maximum pump price of diesel at ZWL$115.15 or US$1.34 per litre and petrol at ZWL$118.42 or US$1.38 per litre.
This is a slight increase from the fuel prices of August that were pegged at ZWL$114.29 or US$1.33 per litre of diesel and ZWL$117.07 or US$1.37 per litre of petrol.
In a public notice issued this Wednesday, ZERA said operators may sell at prices below the cap depending on their trading advantages.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/E-wi5lcWQAgL62x?format=png&amp;name=900x900"/>
ZERA delayed the reviewing of September 2021 fuel prices citing developments taking place in the international oil market.
In a statement released on Monday, ZERA said it will announce the September 2021 fuel prices in due course, while in the meantime, fuel dealers should continue using the August prices. The Authority said then:
<blockquote>
ZERA is working vigorously to have the fuel prices for the month announced and are paying close attention to trends on the international oil market while consulting local key stakeholders on the likely impact of the developments on the final pump prices.
Fuel operators are therefore urged to continue trading as per the August 2021 fuel prices while consultations are being finalised.
</blockquote>
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